As a mum and a family photographer, I totally get it – keeping kids happy and entertained during a photoshoot can feel like a mission! But honestly, the best photos happen when everyone’s relaxed and having fun. Forget stiff poses and forced smiles; let’s talk about games that bring out the giggles and genuine moments.
Here are eight of my go-to games that make photoshoots a blast for kids (and parents too):
1. Animal Games
Kids LOVE pretending to be animals, and it’s such a fun way to break the ice. I might say, “Who can roar like a lion?” or “Let’s hop like bunnies!” It’s so cute watching them get into character, and if mum and dad join in, it’s even better! Trust me, nothing beats a whole family stomping around like elephants – the laughs are priceless, and the photos are even better!
2. Chinese Whispers
This one’s always good for a giggle, especially if the kids are a little shy. We’ll line up and pass a silly message down the chain. By the time the last person says it out loud, it’s usually completely wrong and absolutely hilarious. It’s such a simple way to get everyone laughing and feeling more comfortable.
4. Run Under the Blanket
Okay, this one’s magic! I bring a big, lightweight blanket, and we hold it up like a big canopy. The kids take turns running under it, and the look on their faces as they dash through is pure gold. It’s simple, but the excitement it brings is next level!
5. Red Light, Green Light
You can’t go wrong with this classic! I’ll call out “Green light!” and the kids run toward me, then “Red light!” and they have to freeze. The best part? The over-the-top dramatic poses when they “freeze” or the cheeky ones who can’t quite stay still. It’s so much fun, and the energy it brings to the photos is just awesome.
6. Jumping Off Logs, Over Waves, or Down Sand Dunes
If there’s one thing kids love, it’s jumping! Whether we’re at the beach, in the woods, or anywhere with something safe to leap from, I’ll encourage them to go for it. Jumping off logs, splashing over waves, or rolling down sand dunes always brings the biggest smiles. It’s such a great way to capture their adventurous side.
7. Airplane
This one’s a winner for little ones! Parents lift up their kids and make them FLY! The kids love the feeling of “flying,” and it’s a brilliant way to capture joy and connection. Plus, it usually gets a lot of giggles when the “pilot” has a bit of turbulence!
8. Bear Hugs
Nothing beats a good old bear hug! I’ll encourage siblings or parents and kids to wrap each other up in the biggest, tightest hug they can manage. It’s such a sweet way to capture love and closeness, and it always brings out those happy, squishy smiles. You can feel the warmth in these photos every single time.
Bonus: Tickle Fights
This one’s for the parents! A quick tickle attack is guaranteed to bring out those belly laughs and squirmy cuddles. The connection and joy in these moments are just beautiful to photograph.
At the end of the day, photoshoots don’t have to be stressful. These games aren’t just about getting great photos – they’re about making memories, having fun, and letting kids be kids. So next time you’re thinking about family photos, just know we’ll be playing, laughing, and keeping it super relaxed.
Which of these games do you reckon your kids would love?
